Becerra’s front-runner halo dims under scrutiny in California race
Xavier Becerra’s rise as California’s Democratic front-runner has intensified focus on his communication weaknesses, muddled policy responses, and a corruption case involving aides; while he remains ahead in polls, rivals’ attacks and a surge of negative advertising test his steadiness and messaging ahead of the June primary, potentially shaping a tougher general-election fight against a GOP candidate.













